Post Op Shoe for Patients

After many foot surgeries, doctors recommend a post op shoe to offer additional support and protection for the foot as it heals. It’s extremely important to follow your surgeon’s recommendations after your operation to ensure you heal properly and completely, and to avoid re-injury before the foot is fully back to normal.

Surgeries That Often Require Post Operative Shoes

There are several conditions that may require you to wear a post op shoe during your recovery. These include:

bunions

bone spur removal

arthritis

hammertoe surgery

cyst excision

Note that for conditions like fractures and other non-weight-bearing procedures, a post op shoe will not suffice. Speak with your doctor if you’re unsure.

What Does a Post Op Shoe Do?

Your post operative shoe will allow you to perform the limited movement permitted by your surgeon. It provides a rigid heel counter and ankle strap to keep your foot in place and helps you put weight on your heel. By causing you to walk stiffly, a post op shoe slows you down to keep you from overdoing it right after surgery and re-injuring your foot.

What to Expect with a Post Op Shoe

Post op shoes are intended to restrict your movement. While wearing a post op shoe, you are usually able to make short trips to the kitchen or bathroom. Check with your doctor for specific instructions, but in general you should likely stay off the foot as much as possible for the first few days after surgery. Your surgeon will advise you when it’s time to begin taking more extended walks. Do not attempt to drive while wearing a post op shoe.

For additional comfort during ambulation in the recovery period, you can add a contoured inner sole to your post op shoe to get an even better fit. If you’re preparing for foot surgery, make sure you have the products you need for a successful and comfortable recovery.